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Duncan Sheik, the Tony Award-winning composer of the hit Broadway musical Spring Awakening, has passed away at the age of 56 after sudden hospitalisation.
As reported by The New York Times, Sheik died on Thursday, September 17, of organ failure at a hospital in Manhattan, revealed his mother.
Earlier this week, a statement from the composer's family was issued on Instagram, sharing that Sheik was "receiving medical care" and was in "critical but stable condition".
Duncan Sheik's family issues emotional statement
Confirming his death, the family issued another heartbreaking statement, noting, "The world has a lost a singular talent, and deeply influential voice in music and theater."
"From his Grammy-nominated hit 'Barely Breathing' to his groundbreaking, Tony and Grammy Award-winning work on Spring Awakening, Duncan’s artistry touched many and leaves an indelible mark on the cultural landscape," the message added.
"Duncan was a father, husband, son, brother, and friend. He will be remembered for his sensitivity, wit, intelligence, and depth of spirit he brought to those who knew and loved him.
"We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love from his fans, friends, collaborators, and the artistic community. His musical legacy will continue to inspire generations to come," the emotional statement concluded.
Duncan Sheik's work
At the time of his death, Sheik was working on the new musical Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen, which is scheduled to begin preview performances on September 25 at Off-Broadway’s new venue, The Night Egg at the Culture Club.
A revival of Spring Awakening, which secured Sheik two Tonys for Best Original Score and Best Orchestrations, is also slated to open Off-Broadway in the coming months.
Before lending his talents to theatre, Duncan Sheik released several albums, including his 1996 self-titled debut.
